What's happened
Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh from London on December 25, 2025, amid ongoing political unrest. His return follows the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was shot last week and died in Singapore. The country faces heightened tensions ahead of February 2026 elections, with protests, violence, and diplomatic strains escalating.
What's behind the headline?
The return of Tarique Rahman signals a potential shift in Bangladesh's political landscape, especially with the upcoming February elections. His arrival energizes BNP supporters and could challenge the interim government's efforts to stabilize the country. The recent assassination of Hadi, a prominent pro-democracy figure and critic of India, underscores the volatile environment. The government’s response—arresting suspects and promising justice—aims to contain unrest, but the protests and violence suggest deep-rooted divisions. The situation is further complicated by allegations of foreign influence, particularly from India, which many protesters blame for political repression. The ongoing investigations and the political climate suggest that Bangladesh's path to democratic stability remains uncertain, with the potential for further unrest if tensions escalate.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports Rahman's return as a major political event amid protests and violence, highlighting his symbolic significance and the ongoing investigations into Hadi's assassination. AP News emphasizes the security measures and the political implications of Rahman's arrival, noting the support he commands among BNP supporters. The New Arab provides context on Hadi's death, protests, and the broader political unrest, framing it as part of Bangladesh's fragile transition towards democracy. All sources agree that the political environment remains tense, with the potential for further instability as the elections approach.
How we got here
Rahman, the de facto BNP leader and son of Khaleda Zia, has been in exile since 2008 due to allegations of corruption and political violence. His return comes as Bangladesh prepares for elections under an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, amid a backdrop of political rivalry between BNP and Awami League, and tensions with India over recent protests and violence.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Why Did Bulgaria's Government Resign Now?
Bulgaria's recent government resignation has sparked widespread attention. Amid protests over corruption and economic issues, many are asking what led to this political upheaval and what it means for Bulgaria's future. Below, we explore the key reasons behind the resignation and what might happen next.
-
What’s Behind the Political Violence in Bangladesh?
Recent violence and protests in Bangladesh have raised many questions about the country's political stability and regional tensions. The death of prominent leader Sharif Osman Hadi has intensified concerns about upcoming elections and the broader political landscape. Here, we explore the key questions surrounding this crisis, including who Hadi was, why his death matters, and what it means for Bangladesh’s future.
-
How Do Russia, China, and the US Interfere in Other Countries?
Foreign interference by major powers like Russia, China, and the US is a growing concern worldwide. These countries use various tactics to influence elections, political decisions, and public opinion in other nations. Understanding how they operate can help you recognize the signs of foreign meddling and why it matters for global stability. Below, we explore the methods of interference, signs to watch for, and what countries are doing to protect their sovereignty.
-
Why Are Political Leaders Being Targeted in Recent Attacks?
Recent political violence around the world has raised concerns about stability and safety. High-profile attacks on political leaders are often linked to ongoing conflicts, regional tensions, or internal dissent. Understanding why these attacks happen can help us grasp the broader implications for global politics and security. Below, we explore common questions about the surge in political violence and what it means for the future.
-
How are countries fighting back against foreign influence?
As concerns over foreign interference grow, governments worldwide are implementing new strategies to protect their political systems. From legal reforms to international cooperation, nations are taking steps to prevent meddling by foreign powers. But what specific measures are being used, and how effective are they? Below, we explore the key tactics countries are deploying to safeguard their democracy from foreign influence and what citizens can do to stay informed and protected.
-
What’s Behind the Political Unrest in Bangladesh Now?
Recent events in Bangladesh have sparked widespread protests and violence, raising questions about the country's political stability. The death of prominent critic Sharif Osman Hadi in Dhaka has intensified tensions, especially with upcoming elections on the horizon. Many are wondering what caused this unrest, how it impacts Bangladesh’s future, and what the regional implications might be. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this turbulent period.
-
What’s Happening with Bangladesh’s Political Crisis?
Bangladesh is currently experiencing a tense political situation marked by protests, violence, and high-profile returns. The recent death of opposition leader Osman Hadi and the return of Tarique Rahman from London have intensified fears ahead of the upcoming February 2026 elections. Many are wondering what these developments mean for Bangladesh’s democracy and stability. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about this volatile situation.
-
What Are the Main Issues Ahead of Bangladesh's 2026 Elections?
Bangladesh's upcoming 2026 elections are shrouded in political unrest and uncertainty. Recent violence, the return of opposition figures, and regional tensions are shaping the political landscape. Many wonder how these factors will influence voter behavior and the election outcome. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this volatile period and what it means for Bangladesh's democracy.
More on these topics
-
Muhammad Yunus is a Bangladeshi social entrepreneur, banker, economist, and civil society leader who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for founding the Grameen Bank and pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance.
-
Bangladesh, officially the People's Republic of Bangladesh, is a country in South Asia. It is the eighth-most populous country in the world, with a population exceeding 162 million people.
-
Sheikh Hasina, also known by her married name Sheikh Hasina Wazed, is a Bangladeshi politician serving as the 10th Prime Minister of Bangladesh, having held the office since January 2009.
-
Dhaka, formerly known as Dacca, is the capital and the largest city of Bangladesh. It is the ninth-largest, and the sixth-most densely populated city in the world, with a population of 8.9 million residents within the city limits, and a population of over
-
Tarique Rahman is a Bangladeshi politician who is the current acting chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party since February 2018. He has been residing in London with his family since he left Bangladesh in September 2008.
-
Khaleda Zia is a Bangladeshi politician who served as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh from 1991 to 1996, and again from 2001 to 2006.
-
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is a sovereign island city-state in maritime Southeast Asia. It lies about one degree of latitude north of the equator, off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, bordering the Straits of Malacca to the w
-
Ziaur Rahman was a Bangladesh Army officer and later turned statesman who served as the President of Bangladesh from 1977 to 1981. He was assassinated on 30 May 1981 in Chittagong in an army coup d'état.